Forage herbs offer sward productivity boost
Modern varieties of herbs such as perennial chicory and plantain can increase the production potential from forage-based livestock systems in the UK, according to New Zealand agronomist Dick Arnst.
Speaking at an EBLEX Better Returns Programme (BRP) meeting at The Farm, Longnor, in Shropshire, Mr Arnst listed increased dry matter production, higher digestibility and improved trace mineral status as the main benefits from varieties such as Puna II perennial chicory and Ceres Tonic plantain – all leading ultimately to increased performance from cattle and sheep.
"Once seen only as wild and inedible weeds, these herb species are now – through the progress made in plant breeding – very valuable alternative forages that can be grown in pure stands or more commonly as companion species alongside grass and clover.
"Both plantain and perennial chicory are complementary to the established pasture species grown in the UK, having different rooting profiles to ryegrasses, for example, and providing richer supplies of essential trace minerals and offering greater drought tolerance."
Host farmers for the BRP event, Tim and John Downes, now include Puna II perennial chicory and Ceres Tonic plantain at significant levels alongside high sugar ryegrasses, white clover and red clover in around 30ha (70acres) of their 300ha (700acre) organic dairy and beef unit. Swards containing forage herbs are both cut for silage and grazed, with the grazing being considered suitable quality to put a finish on the Aberdeen Angus cattle destined for a premium grade outlet.
As Tim Downes explained, forage herbs are making a notable contribution to pasture productivity on the farm, but there are management considerations to bear in mind.
"I believe we are seeing higher dry matter production overall, probably due to the differing root profiles in the herbs that ensure that they maintain their growth when the ryegrasses may slow down. Extra productivity also comes from improved palatability and digestibility, and the mineral status is undoubtedly improved even in comparison with a grass and clover sward. Perennial chicory is known to offer worm control benefits, so we are monitoring gut worms though faecal egg counting and hope and expect to see a positive effect in this area too.
"We operate a rotational grazing system, and this definitely suits species like perennial chicory and plantain. It is important, however, to avoid poaching and topping during or before wet weather as this can result in damage to the crown and a reduction in plant numbers."
The BRP meeting was led by EBLEX regional manager Clive Brown and supported by British Seed Houses. Expert speaker Dick Arnst is a senior agronomist with the New Zealand agribusiness PGG Wrightson, who was touring the UK as a guest of British Seed Houses.
